The political landscape of Adamawa State may be on the verge of a major realignment as speculations continue to mount over a possible defection of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Reacting to the development, Yakubu Bello Bashir Esq., PhD (Ubandoma Bazza II), a frontline senatorial aspirant for Adamawa North Senatorial District under the APC, described the potential move as “historic” and a significant boost for the party in the state.
Bashir noted that Governor Fintiri’s political trajectory reflects resilience, strategic depth, and sustained grassroots dominance. He recalled that Fintiri began his legislative career in the Adamawa State House of Assembly, where he emerged as Minority Leader during his first term and later rose to become Speaker. He subsequently served twice as Acting Governor before contesting and winning the governorship election in 2019 and securing re-election in 2023 under the PDP.
According to Bashir, Fintiri’s leadership consolidated the PDP’s dominance in the state, producing three Senators, five members of the House of Representatives, and retaining control of the governorship. He said such electoral strength and political structure were built over time through consistent grassroots engagement and strategic mobilization.
“Adamawa politics is largely determined at the grassroots, and Governor Fintiri has demonstrated an uncommon ability to organize, mobilize, and win elections across wards and local governments,” Bashir stated.
He added that if the governor formally joins the APC, it would significantly strengthen the party’s grassroots reach and reposition it ahead of the 2027 general elections. He further argued that such a move would enhance federal-state collaboration and consolidate party structures across the state.
Bashir also commended Fintiri’s administration, asserting that even political opponents have acknowledged his efforts in delivering infrastructure and governance reforms. He referenced the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to commission projects in the state as evidence of the governor’s political relevance and performance.
Describing Fintiri as a seasoned politician with proven electoral capacity, Bashir maintained that his possible defection would represent more than a party switch, but a major political realignment capable of redefining party dynamics in Adamawa.
He urged members of the APC in the state to welcome the governor should the move materialize, emphasizing the need for unity and strategic consolidation ahead of future electoral contests.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official confirmation from Governor Fintiri regarding plans to leave the PDP.
